ARTICLE BY: Unspecified
PUBLICATION: Fourways Review
Being part of the Yes4Youth Internship Programme helped Sikolethu Kunene shape her future
My name is Sikolethu Kunene and I am 20 years old.
I’m part of the Yes4Youth Internship Programme at Witkoppen Clinic.
I matriculated in 2020 and it was a big achievement for me as I passed well but I couldn’t continue with my studies because my mom got very sick so I had to look after her.
I tried to apply to different universities but I got rejected because I was late with my applications. In 2020, my mother lost her job due to her illness and things were not good at home as there was no one to support us.
In September 2021, Witkoppen Clinic and Yes4Youth Internship Programme offered me the opportunity to work as a dietician intern.
Getting a chance to work here has taught me how to be independent and it has helped me improve my skills.
I am now able to take care of my mom and bring food to the table. I have faced several difficult situations but with the help of my team members, I was able to adjust to the work environment.
Although it is hard to predict the future, I sincerely believe that I’ll be able to further my studies and become a successful woman. I believe that my abilities will allow me to excel so that I can seek other work opportunities. I am grateful that I was given this opportunity which has improved my professionalism and productivity.